Bacterial Diversity Associated with Dung Beetles: Ecological Perspectives
Bacterial Diversity Associated with Dung Beetles: Ecological Perspectives
Sheeza Sakhawat, Aniza Iftikhar, Uswa Zeb, Aqsa Noreen, Suleman Hussain Shah and Mubashar Hussain*
ABSTRACT
This study reviews the bacterial diversity associated with the gut microbiota of dung beetles, focusing on the microbial ecology, taxonomy, and environmental factors influencing the composition and functionality of these bacterial populations. Dung beetles are among the most diverse organisms, harboring a wide variety of bacterial phyla in their gut. The genetic diversity within these bacteria is astounding, with bacteria possessing 100 times more genes than the host dung beetle. Dung beetles use dung (incomplete diet) for their development and require symbiotic relationships with microorganisms to synthesize and use nutrients. The gut microbiota includes bacterial phyla such as Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, Clostridium, Firmicutes, Proteobacteria, Bacteroidetes, Deltaproteobacteria, Betaproteobacteria, Streptomyces, Actinobacteria, with variations linked to diet, geographical location, and beetle species. The gut microbiota plays a crucial role in breaking down complex organic compounds, neutralizing toxins, and supporting the overall ecology of the beetle. This paper examines the bacterial population within dung beetles, focusing on their taxonomy, functionality, and ecological roles. It also explores how these gut bacteria vary based on the beetle’s environment and its symbiotic relationship with them. The bacterial taxa and their metabolic pathways related to dung decomposition, nitrogen fixation, and antimicrobial synthesis show distinct specificity. These findings reinforce the symbiotic relationship between dung beetles and their gut bacteria, contributing to a deeper understanding of microbial diversity and its ecological significance. The study also offers valuable insights with implications for bioconversion, soil management, and the preservation of beneficial microbes.
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